HEALTH CORNER
The Surprising Health Benefits
of Hot Springs and Mineral
Baths
In Saint Lucia, soaking in the
natural hot sulphur springs is
indeed a treasured pastime
that’s steeped in many of years
of tradition.
Hot springs baths are more
than just a natural hot tub but
are precious for relaxation,
health, and much more. Of
course, hot springs, onsens,
mineral baths and spa therapy
have a very rich history and
are cherished in many parts of
the developed world.
That’s because hot springs
are known to have several
therapeutic benefits. Folklore
in many countries suggests
that soaking in hot springs
increases your metabolism,
circulation, blood flow,
and absorption of essential
minerals.
Sounds awesome so far,
but wait—there’s more! In
some parts of the world,
it is thought that the hot
spring mineral waters could
help treat several chronic
digestive diseases, diabetes,
constipation, gout, and liver
complaints. Amazing!
Meanwhile, you probably
won’t be prescribed hot spring
treatment by your doctor, but
that hasn’t stopped people
from enjoying their thermal
baths in the hot springs. of pores and hydrated skin
from hot springs can increase
absorption. Certainly, there
are many people who can
account for relief from their
skin-related conditions.
Minerals in the Water
Since many hot springs contain
sulphur, prepare to get a
consistent rotten egg smell
caused by the sulphur. There
are many other minerals in the
waters as well, such as calcium,
sulphate, magnesium, iron,
chloride, potassium, zinc, to
mention a few. Magic in the Water
Whatever the case, hot springs
still feel heavenly and a real
treat. A large part of the
virtues of hot springs are owed
to the properties of water
itself, along with the soothing
heat.
Currently, it’s not really known
how or if you get more of
these minerals into your body
by simply bathing in the hot
springs.
There are many factors that
can influence absorption of
the minerals through the skin,
but our outermost layer of
skin, mostly made up of dead
skin, is good at keeping out
such things. This protects us
from so many things. So, yes,
it’s a good thing.
Many experts suggest that
while sweating, the opening
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This heat, although sometimes
intense, can help relieve pain.
The way it works, as this meta-
analysis of studies published in
the North American Journal of
American Sciences suggests, is
that the heat along with the
pressure of the water dulls our
perception of pain by blocking
the pain receptors in our
bodies.
Plus, the mineral
concentration and hot water
can make you feel “floatier”,
which has positive effects on
your joints and muscles,
working together to help
you feel good and—more
importantly—more relaxed.
www.slyoumag.com | July-August 2019